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Why work for Downing College?

Downing College is supported by 130 staff, ranging from porters to gardeners, and all are entitled to a range of benefits.

Full-time staff are entitled to 33 days leave, including Bank Holidays (the entitlement is pro-rata to 33 days for part-time staff). The College operates maternity, paternity, shared parental leave, adoptive, compassionate and emergency leave. All staff can join the college’s contributory pension scheme facilitated by NOW Pensions. A college lunch is available to all staff who work both before and after the lunch period. The current daily lunch subsidy of £4.75 will generally provide a two-course meal.

Car Parking

As a non-contractual benefit, for those who live outside of Cambridge, Downing College has some car parking spaces which authorised staff are able to use during normal working hours.

Wellbeing Benefits

All staff benefit from a subscription to a single, basic membership of a healthcare cash plan. In addition, the College subscribes to a confidential employee support freephone helpline. There is the option to join The Cambridge Colleges Healthcare Plan plus a choice of two subsidised dental schemes.

Staff can use the College’s well-equipped Fitness Room for a modest annual membership and one-off induction fee.

The College subscribes to an employee discount shopping scheme which allows staff to register for a range of discounts across many supermarkets and high street stores as well as travel, cinema and other services.

Social Activities

Various staff social events happen throughout the year, including a summer outing, an annual a cricket match between staff and Fellows, and a Christmas Dinner-dance. Musical events take place in the College Chapel and the Master’s Lodge throughout the year and staff are welcome to attend. Staff are also welcome to attend most events put on by student Music and Drama Societies.

Money Saving Benefits

The College offer employees the opportunity to participate in CycleScheme, a childcare voucher scheme, and the Lifestyle Discount Shopping Scheme. As a member of the University you are entitled to certain discounts on presenting your University Card in many establishments throughout Cambridge.